May 1, 2014 : To Whom It May Concern: | am writing this letter on behalf of Miss Nicole Bowman. Nicole was placed in my first grade classroom for professional semester from March to May of 2014. During this experience with Nicole, | have watched her grow as an educator and develop many of the necessary characteristics of an exceptional teacher. Nicole has demonstrated a vast understanding of the importance of proper lesson planning. Her lessons are well thought out, relevant and interesting for students, and properly aligned with standards. Mutual respect between Nicole and the students that she works with is evident, Her interactions with students are always done in a kind and helpful manner, therefore the students feel comfortable with her and are able to learn in an environment free of hurtful criticism and self-doubt. Nicole fosters a positive classroom environment in which students are able to learn from each other and their mistakes and not feel pressured or unfairly judged. Nicole is quick to pick up new information, whether it is new curriculum, a new teaching strategy, or an idea unfamiliar to her. She knows just how to take ideas and make them better. Nicole is able to evaluate what works and what doesn’t work and make the necessary changes to better the situation for everyone involved. On more than one occasion, without hesitation, Nicole has taken time out of her own schedule for school functions, such as end of the year performances and writing workshop. She has shown herself to be a sincere and involved educator. | give my highest recommendation to Nicole Bowman. She is an excellent person, a superior teacher, and she would be a wonderful addition to any faculty. Leslie Aizkalns Wilson School District Whitfield Elementary West Lawn, PA